Some second leads aren’t just backup options — they’re walking green flags, boyfriend (or girlfriend!) material, and total heartbreakers. This year, we’ve cried over more than just sad endings… we cried because the better person didn’t get the love they deserved.
Let’s look back at the most lovable second leads of 2025 who absolutely deserved better. Warning: major swooning ahead
1. Kang Joon-ho – Miss Undercover Boss
He’s the charming, reliable assistant who falls for the undercover boss without knowing her secret. Always supportive, always there… but he’s not the main lead.
Syndrome Level: 9/10 — He brought all the green flag energy.
2. Han Seo-jin – Love Next Door
The best friend who loved quietly, waited patiently, and never crossed the line. Her love was gentle and unconditional — and yet, she watched him fall for someone else.
Syndrome Level: 8.5/10 — We screamed, “Choose her!”
3. Jin Tae-hyun – Esquire
The loyal lawyer who always had her back, made her laugh, and even fought her battles… but her heart belonged to the darker, moodier male lead.
Syndrome Level: 9.5/10 — Justice for Tae-hyun, please!
4. Yoo Ah-rin – Way Back Love
She was everything — smart, kind, and always picked the ML up when he was at his worst. But nostalgia won, and he went back to his first love.
Syndrome Level: 10/10 — Our heartbreak of the year.
5. Choi Hyun-woo – Our Unwritten Seoul
The sweet musician who silently adored the FL while she chased her dreams. He made her playlists, helped her smile again — and still wasn’t chosen.
Syndrome Level: 10/10 — He was the ending she needed.
Why We Keep Falling for Second Leads
Because they’re soft, sincere, and often the better person. We root for them, cry for them, and secretly wish the drama had a surprise twist where they do get the girl/guy.
2025 gave us swoon-worthy second leads who deserved the world — but got friend-zoned instead. Don’t worry, kings and queens. In our hearts, you were the real endgame.
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